It’s been less than two months since she last suited up for the Alabama Crimson Tide, but former Alabama Miss Basketball is already preparing for the biggest step in her career — her WNBA debut.
For a player who’s always been ahead of the curve, the rapid transition from NCAA competition to the highest level of professional women’s basketball almost feels like destiny. From small-town gymnasiums in Alabama to sold-out Southeastern Conference arenas, her journey has been defined by dedication, sacrifice, and an undeniable love for the game. Now, after years of breaking records, leading her team, and carrying the weight of a state’s expectations, she’s ready to take the next leap.
The moment her name was called on draft night, her phone exploded with texts, calls, and social media notifications. Friends. Family. Former teammates. Coaches. Even high school rivals reached out to celebrate the next chapter of her story. But even as the WNBA welcomed her with open arms, she knew this was just the beginning.
There was no time for champagne or extended celebration. Within days of the draft, she was on a flight to her new city, diving headfirst into rookie camp, getting acclimated to new systems, new expectations, and the stark reality that every player on the court was just as good — if not better — than she was. There’s no safety net in the WNBA, no warm-up games. Every moment counts, and she’s treating each rep in practice like it could be her last.
“I’ve waited my whole life for this,” she said recently during media availability. “Every hour in the gym, every time I got up shots when no one was watching — this is what it was for. I’m not here just to say I made it. I’m here to compete.”
Her story begins long before her final season at Alabama, back when she was a middle school prodigy making waves in her community for dominating girls far older than her. Coaches saw something different in her — not just the physical gifts, but the poise, the vision, and a rare combination of humility and killer instinct. By the time she reached high school, she had already drawn attention from national scouts. She quickly became a household name in the South, culminating in her selection as Alabama Miss Basketball.
But it wasn’t always easy. There were moments when the spotlight felt too bright, when the pressure of being “the next big thing” became overwhelming. Injuries, personal loss, and criticism from outside voices could’ve derailed her. Instead, she found solace in the game — using basketball not only as her passion but as her therapy. Each time she laced up her shoes, she reminded herself that this was her escape, her chance to be fully in control.
That mindset carried her to the University of Alabama, where she rewrote the Crimson Tide’s record books over four decorated seasons. She wasn’t just a scorer, though she finished among the program’s all-time leaders in points. She wasn’t just a passer, even though she often played the role of floor general. She did everything — defending, rebounding, leading by example, and setting a standard of excellence that her coaches and teammates consistently praised.
She was the engine of Alabama’s resurgence, helping the Tide to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and elevating the program’s national profile. Fans at Coleman Coliseum knew they were watching greatness every time she stepped on the floor. She played with a certain edge, a fire that made even her most mundane plays feel electric. That energy rubbed off on the entire team.
“She’s one of the fiercest competitors I’ve ever coached,” Alabama head coach Kristy Curry said after her final home game. “What she’s meant to our program goes beyond points and wins. She gave us an identity.”
Despite her collegiate success, the transition to the WNBA has required adjustments. The pace is quicker. The playbooks are thicker. The veterans are tougher. But she’s never been one to shy away from a challenge. Her rookie preseason was marked by flashes of brilliance — a mid-range jumper here, a clutch steal there — that proved she belongs. Coaches are already raving about her work ethic and maturity. Teammates have welcomed her, recognizing the potential impact she could make not only this year, but for seasons to come.
Perhaps what sets her apart most isn’t her stats, but her attitude. She arrives early to practice. She studies film. She listens more than she talks, soaking in the advice of those who’ve carved out long careers in the league. She’s confident but coachable — a rare balance that often defines the difference between a short stint and a long-lasting legacy in the W.
The WNBA is growing — in popularity, in visibility, in talent. And as the league enters what many consider a golden age of women’s sports, her timing couldn’t be better. She’s entering the professional ranks at a moment when eyes are watching more closely than ever before. Networks are broadcasting more games. Endorsement opportunities are expanding. And most importantly, young girls across the country are being introduced to a new generation of stars. She’s proud to be one of them.
“Representation matters,” she said. “I remember watching WNBA games as a little girl and seeing people who looked like me. That’s what made me believe I could do it. Now, I want to be that person for someone else.”
Back in Alabama, her impact still lingers. Youth programs have adopted her name for skills camps. High school girls still wear her number with pride. And her college jersey — now framed — hangs proudly in the practice facility. She hasn’t forgotten where she came from, and she knows the responsibility that comes with being a role model.
That’s why she’s already planning to give back. In the offseason, she hopes to host a camp in her hometown, free of charge, focused on teaching not just basketball skills, but confidence and self-worth.
“Basketball gave me so much more than a platform,” she said. “It gave me my voice.”
As she prepares for her WNBA debut, her focus is simple: get better every day. She’s not concerned with Rookie of the Year awards or individual accolades — at least not yet. For now, it’s about contributing however she can. Whether it’s locking down an opposing guard, pushing the tempo off the bench, or bringing energy during film sessions, she’s committed to earning her place.
And while her WNBA journey is just beginning, there’s a quiet confidence that it will be a long one.
“I’ve dreamed about this for so long,” she said. “Now that it’s here, I’m going to make the most of it.”
She knows there will be bumps along the way. Every rookie hits a wall. But she also knows she’s not walking into this alone. With the support of her family, her former coaches, and a state still cheering her on, she carries their dreams with her. Every pass, every shot, every defensive stop — it’s all part of a bigger story.
For now, she’s focused on staying present, taking it one day at a time. But there’s no doubt — the same drive that made her a high school phenom, an SEC star, and a fan favorite in Tuscaloosa is what will carry her through the pros.
In a league that rewards grit, heart, and relentless pursuit of greatness, she’s exactly where she belongs.
And Alabama’s Miss Basketball? She’s ready to show the world why that title was just the beginning.